Often when we think of physical therapy we think of athletes recovering from an injury, or an adult regaining strength following surgery or a health event that impacted their functionality. While these are certainly prime examples of the ways that physical therapy can promote well-being and enrich the health and quality of life of individuals, physical therapy’s range is even wider, and it includes kids.
Of course, a child can benefit from physical therapy in many of the same ways that an adult can—for example, a fall while playing might result in a break or sprain for which physical therapy is part of the treatment plan. However, there are also other conditions that physical therapy can help with that are more particular to children, like bedwetting.
Pediatric Physical Therapy
Pediatric physical therapy uses therapeutic play, exercises, stretches, and other modalities to help children and teens who are dealing with a developmental challenge or delay, or who are dealing with a condition or injury that is impacting their ability to function as well as they could.
Kids can benefit from physical therapy due to any number of factors, from a sports injury to a bone or muscle issue. Some conditions that are more specific to children have a great track record of being helped by physical therapy. One such condition is nocturnal enuresis, commonly known as bedwetting.
Physical Therapy for Bedwetting
Bedwetting is a very common issue, but it’s one that can be a source of frustration for parents and embarrassment for children. The good news is that physical therapy has been shown to be effective in helping kids manage and overcome this problem through safe and non-invasive modalities.
The expert physical therapists at Core 3 Physical Therapy treat children as young as six for bedwetting. In a first visit, parents can expect to talk with the physical therapist about their child’s current condition and medical history, and for a simple exam to be done to assess the functioning of the muscles of the child’s legs, abdomen, and pelvis.
This information will help the physical therapist to draw up a care plan tailored to the child’s needs. It may include modalities like stretches, exercise to be done at home, biofeedback, muscle strengthening techniques, and possibly suggestions about diet and behavior modifications.
Pediatric Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
While bedwetting is one of the most common issues that can prompt a parent to bring their child in for physical therapy, pelvic floor issues can result in a host of other conditions or challenges for which physical therapy can be an effective aid. These can include urinary retention, chronic constipation or urgency in needing to empty the bowels, pain when urinating or defecating, and even excessive gas or bloating.
A certified physical therapist, like the ones at Core3, is trained to address these issue and others with children in a professional, caring, safe way that helps kids and parents feel comfortable as improvement is made and functionality is achieved or regained.
Wondering if physical therapy can help your child? Reach out to the experts at Core 3 Physical Therapy today to find out!